Easthampton Mayor Nicole LaChapelle (far left), MiraVsita Chief of Creative Strategy and Development Kimberley Lee and other community officials and members pose with the Mental Health Awareness Month flag that now hangs outside of the municipal building.
Reminder Publishing photo by Trent Levakis
EASTHAMPTON — In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, the city of Easthampton joined with MiraVista Behavioral Health Center for a flag raising ceremony on May 20.
Mental Health Awareness Month is a national observance dedicated to increasing public understanding of mental health and encouraging support for those impacted by mental health conditions.
“Today’s flag raising is much more than a symbolic gesture. It’s a statement. A statement that here in Easthampton, like so many communities across the commonwealth, mental health is seen as an essential part of overall well-being and that no one should feel isolated or alone in seeking help,” said Kimberley Lee, chief of Creative Strategy and Development for MiraVista.
The ceremony brought together a good turnout of local leaders, health professionals, advocates and community members for a moment of reflection and unity. The flag raised will serve as a visual symbol of hope and a commitment to fostering awareness, compassion and access to care throughout Easthampton and beyond.
“It is amazing to have so many people here to witness the flag raising for Mental Health Awareness Month,” said Easthampton Mayor Nicole LaChapelle about the turnout for the ceremony before reading a city proclamation for Mental Health Awareness Month. “The city of Easthampton recognizes the importance of raising awareness and reducing stigma and supporting mental health equity for all residents regardless of age, background or socioeconomic status.”
Lee added partners like LaChapelle, and the city of Easthampton were crucial in recognizing the opportunity the moment holds in regard to mental health awareness.
“The opportunity to silence stigma, to promote healing, and to show that compassion and connection are powerful tools for long lasting change. So many individuals, young and old, are navigating challenges quietly,” Lee said. “Today, as this flag is raised, we send a visible message. You are not alone. Support is here, hope is here and conversations around mental health deserve to happen out in the open with honesty and care. Let’s let this flag be a daily reminder that awareness leads to action, compassion breaks down silence and together we create communities where every mind if values and every voice has a place, because every mind matters.”
